April 24, 2012

Asher Gallery Spring Trunk Show: Tom Irven & Anita Barnes

From Suzanne Sippel, Asher Gallery Retail Manager:

Putting together a
trunk show is unlike any of my regular tasks in the Asher Gallery. It’s not
about choosing one person, but finding two artists working in different media
that complement each other. It’s important that their work not compete with
each other. Ideally, their two sets of clients will merge, bringing new
audiences and attracting new collectors for everyone.

Keeping this in
mind, I was drawn to the pairing of jeweler Anita Barnes and woodturner Tom
Irven. The visual weight of their work, regardless of material, is very light,
almost airy. Upon closer examination, one can see similar graphic qualities,
such as twists, loops and curves. Though their individual styles are very
different—a turned acorn box versus amethyst and gold-fill wire earrings—their shared
sensibilities work well together.

Earrings by Anita Barnes. Photo courtesy the artist.

Former HCCC resident
artist, Tom Irven, is known for his innate sense of balance and form. He
explains, “The inspiration for my designs comes from nature, dreams and life
experiences.” Expressed in objects from
mobiles to sculptures and from finial boxes to acorns, Tom’s work does not
scream out to be seen, but rather converses with the viewer.

You’ll see this
same interaction in the delicate, sparkling jewelry of Anita Barnes. The beauty
of these pieces arises in concert with the wearer. Inspired by the light and color of the
Caribbean islands, it’s easy to picture yourself thus adorned, strolling on a
tropical night.

In the end, it was
the shared relationship with the viewer that drew me to this pairing of Tom
Irven and Anita Barnes. Both are very happy to discuss their work and answer
questions, so don’t miss this opportunity to view a large selection of new work
and meet the artists!